April 28: Make tracks to Ag Day

College of Agriculture and Natural Resources sets annual Ag Day celebration

1:12 p.m., April 17, 2012--Ag Day, the annual event held by the University of Delaware’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR), is once again fast approaching. Students, faculty, and the greater Newark community are encouraged to come out on Saturday, April 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., for great food, music and, of course, interactive educational exhibits and demonstrations about agriculture and natural resources.

Organized by staff and students of CANR, Ag Day works with over 90 organizations to bring hands-on exhibits, demonstrations, and activities for kids and adults alike. From petting a farm animal or racing cockroaches, to listening to local bands and enjoying the UDairy Creamery’s newest flavors, there is plenty to keep visitors busy all day.

Ag Day will be held at CANR’s Townsend Hall, located at 531 South College Avenue in Newark. Admission and parking are free, with minimal charges for food, pony rides, and hayrides with the profits going back to student and community organizations.

Those who attend are encouraged to visit the popular Ag Day plant sales offered by the UD Botanic Gardens, New Castle County Master Gardeners and Horticulture Club.

At 11:45 a.m., join the University mascots YoUDee and Baby Blue in front of the UDairy Creamery to sing "Happy Birthday" to the creamery as it celebrates one year of operation. Creamery officials will unveil a brand new flavor offering and share another exciting announcement.

Bands performing include Tater Patch, Dodging Cupid, The Hook, The Common Room, and Toothpick.

This year the Delaware Farm Bureau and the Delaware Food Bank are teaming up to provide food to local families in need. Bring non-perishable food items to donate to the Delaware Food Bank and receive a chance to win a Lionel O-gauge train (one chance per item and there’s no limit to the number of item you can donate, and cash donations are also welcome). The food drop-off bin will be located at the Delaware Farm Bureau table next to the ever-popular Ramsey’s Farm straw bale maze and Sunset Stables pony rides.

Visitors are encouraged to use parking lots at UD’s Science and Technology Campus, ice arenas, Delaware Field House and Delaware Stadium, and also to use SEPTA/DART services. Please use cross walks. Those with handicapped tags are encouraged to enter near the Delaware Field House and proceed toward the UDairy Creamery for designated parking.

For general information, FAQs, a full list of exhibitors, and the day’s music and demonstration schedule, visit the Ag Day website or call 302-831-2508.